Councillors reject Kew Bridge plans - but will Planning Inspector agree?

Butterfly House move to Gunnersbury Park rubber-stamped

Hounslow Council's Sustainable Development Committee has voted to refuse permission for the controversial development on the 'Scottish Widows' site next to Kew Bridge.

However the scheme might still go ahead if a government planning inspector finds in favour of the scheme at a hearing on April 5th. The hearing will take place because of the time that has elapsed since applicants St George lodged their plans with the council.

The plans for the site have met with constant opposition from residents and community groups. Modifications have been made by the developers but the scheme, consisting of 263 apartments rising to eight stories, continued to attract criticism.

Councillors rejected the scheme on the basis of over-development and dissatisfaction with the form and design. "This is a landmark site and it deserves a landmark building" Councillor Corinna Smart told us "and this isn't it".

Councillors also noted the negative effect that the proposals would have on the waterfront and the difficulties of managing traffic increases on an already-congested corner.

At the same meeting councillors approved plans for a new Butterfly House to be built in Gunnersbury Park. The present site of the popular attraction, in Syon Park, will form the site of a new hotel.

March 23 2005